Equality and non-discrimination

The Union provides advice and assistance to members that suspect they have been discriminated against in a manner prohibited by the Act on Equality between Women and Men or the Non-discrimination Act. Discrimination may arise during all phases of employment: in the recruitment process, during the employment relationship, and at the end of the relationship.  

Equality as a legal concept refers to the Act on Equality between Women and Men. The Act on Equality between Women and Men prohibits discrimination based on gender, gender identity, and gender expression. The Equality Act also prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, parenthood, or family responsibility.   

Non-discrimination as a legal concept refers more broadly to the equality between all people, the requirement to treat all people equally, and the prohibition of discrimination based on personal characteristics, including origin, religion, state of health, and trade union activity.   

Equal treatment refers to an employer’s responsibility to treat all employees in an equal manner, as stipulated by the Employment Contracts Act.  

The employer is mandated by law to promote equality and non-discrimination at work.  

If you suspect discrimination, the Union lawyer will help you clarify the situation. If you have experienced discrimination, you are entitled to compensation. In cases of discrimination, it is also possible to turn to the Ombudsman for Equality or the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman, if necessary. 

Read more about the Union’s legal counselling.